Gov. Fallin bans use of e-cigarettes on state property

Gov. Fallin bans use of e-cigarettes on state property

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans who have turned to e-cigarettes instead of regular cigarettes will no longer be able to smoke on state-owned property.

Gov. Mary Fallin signed an executive order on Monday that prohibits the use of electronic cigarettes on all state-owned and leased properties, beginning Jan. 1.

Earlier this year, lawmakers passed legislation that permanently prohibited the use of tobacco products.

The governor says the prohibitions on e-cigarettes and tobacco products protect the health of employees and visitors.

“E-cigarettes release vapor that contains chemicals that can impact employees and visitors to state property,” she said. “Additionally, many electronic cigarettes look like traditional cigarettes and emit a vapor that looks like smoke. This creates confusion for employees and visitors and presents enforcement challenges for state agencies.”

Fallin says vaping devices are a concern because they are unregulated products and the long-term health impacts are unknown.